True “soul” music evokes emotions and speaks straight to the heart of the listener. Robert Gee not only continues the great legacy of soulful singers, he evolves it. With a rich, seductive voice that compels you to join him in his sonic odyssey of love and longing, he has crafted a multi-dimensional sound that is at once uniquely his own but reminiscent of the great crooners who came before him. Just take one listen to his wildly authentic reading of the Thelonius Monk classic, “Round Midnight,” where Robert Gee very convincingly channels Donny Hathaway with shades of Stevie Wonder. While he clearly pays tribute to some of his musical influences, he has no problem switching gears to serve up his own brand of modern day soul complete with lush, harmonious backing vocals that are a delight to the ears. On tracks like the infectious mid-tempo gem, “Here We Go,” Robert Gee showcases his inspired musicianship with a vocal arrangement that would eat up a vocalist of a lesser caliber. However, his forte is delivering quiet storm ballads such as the slow burn groove of “Waiting.” You find yourself rooting for him as he masterfully persuades the object of his affection to take their friendship to the next level and sets a mood that makes it all but impossible to refuse his pleas.
Hailing from the city of brotherly love, Robert Gee is an heir apparent to the “Philly Soul” tradition. However, it is his electrifying stage presence and voice that has critics saying, now it’s his turn to rightfully take his place as the next big thing in music and with such an impeccable reputation as a showstopper, Robert Gee is bound to become an icon.
By: Askari Ali
